The Mende Language Containing Useful Phrases Elementary Grammar Short Vocabularies, Reading Materials (Classic Reprint)

The nation seems to be formed by an admixture of a tall, slim race, presumably coming from the open country to the northward, with the short, thick-set race, which ancient records, dating back as far as the time of the Phoenicians, Show to have been the inhabitants of the tropical African forest in past ages which view the foregoing figures appear to support.

The customs of the Mendes, as far as I can learn from hearsay, do not seem to differ greatly from those of their immediate neighbours, who still remain pagans. The great institution of the country is Poro; an institution similar to which exists among the Vais, their neighbours to the south east, and I believe also in other adjoining countries. As reference has been made to it, it may be brie?y stated that Poro is virtually a system of education. It has been described as a secret society but there cannot be much secrecy about what has been attended by nearly all the youth of the country. The course of instruction varies with the desire and status of the individual and the fees paid. Dancing, singing, gymnastics, medicine, and mystic rites are amongst the subjects taught, and for some boys the course lasts seven years. Girls also go through a course of instruction suitable for them, which they are not permitted to talk about with the other sex. What is Poro to the men is called Sande or Bondo for the women.

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